The UlTimaTe GUide To home

improvemenT loans

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NMLS #110139 AmeriFirst Home Mortgage 800.466.5626

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HOME IMPROVEMENT LOANS

Section 1: What is a Renovation Mortgage?Page 4 ……………………………………….What is a Renovation Mortgage?Section 2: Home Improvement Loan OptionsPage 6 ……………………………………….Home EquityPage 7 ……………………………………….FHA 203k (Standard 203k, Limited 203k)Page 11 ….…………………………..……. HomeStyle RenovationPage 12 ……………………………………. Renovation Loan Comparison ChartSection 3: Bonus Choices and More ResourcesPage 14...…...……………………………....Energy Efficient UpgradesPage 15 …....……………………………….AmeriFirst PowerSaverPage 16 ..…..……………………………….More Home Buyer & Homeowner ResourcesPage 17 ..…..……………………………….Where to Find AmeriFirst Home Mortgage

This guide brought to you by: AmeriFirst Home Mortgage

a division of AmeriFirst Financial Corp. 950 Trade Centre Way, Suite 400

Kalamazoo, MI 49002 800.466.5626

www.amerifirst.com

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secTion 1:WhaT is a

renovaTion morTGaGe?

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WHAT IS A RENOVATION MORTGAGE?

Picture this scene: you’re tired of renting and you want to find your own house. As you begin to explore the neighborhoods in which you’d like to live, you find many foreclosed homes up for sale. Many times, these homes are in disrepair. Sometimes they’re missing things like appliances, the furnace or a water heater. But with prices what they are, it’s hard to walk away from these properties. Enter home improvement loans – also known as the Renovation Mortgage. You can take advantage of one of these programs and roll the cost of repairs, renovation, rehabilitation and home improvements into the mortgage and pay just one monthly payment. The benefit to this is that you can then write off the interest on your taxes. You can’t do that when you finance the work and supplies on a credit card or store credit line.

Disclaimer: Not intended as accounting or investment advice. Interest above the fair market value is not tax deductible for federal taxes. Contact your tax preparer for more information.

A renovation mortgage allows you to buy the house in its current condition and assume the responsibility of making the necessary repairs. So you can buy the house in “as-is” condition with a mortgage that takes into account the after-improved value once the work is completed. The cost of the work is amortized over the life of the mortgage, and stays with the home in the event that you decide to sell.

This is not a do-it-yourself home improvement loan. Renovation mortgages require licensed professionals for most of the work. This protects you and the lender in case the work does not get finished. Unfinished work devalues the home, and makes life difficult for all parties involved. Renovation mortgages can include several options. We’ll explore those in this eBook. This guide is meant to help you better understand your options. Some of these programs can change without notice, since the ultimate funding comes from mortgage backers like Fannie Mae. Let this guide be your helper when it comes to buying a home in this housing market.

Renovation Mortgage ProjectsRepair/replace roof, gutters & downspouts

Repair/replace/upgrade existing HVAC systems

Repair/replace plumbing & electrical systems

Replace/repair flooring (carpet, tile, wood)

Minor renovations in kitchen or bathrooms

Interior or exterior painting

Weatherization including storm doors or insulation

Buy & install appliances including washer/dryer

Repair/replace septic systems and/or well

Disability access like wheelchair ramps, elevator

Abatement/stabilization of lead-based paint hazard

Build/repair/replace decks, porches & patios

Basement finishing & waterproofing (excluding structural)

Replace windows, doors and siding

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secTion 2:home

improvemenT loan opTions

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HOME IMPROVEMENT LOAN OPTIONS

HOME EQUITY

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

The lender which holds your mortgage note may offer a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). This means the lender will loan you a maximum amount of money during a period of time (called a term). The collateral on this line of credit is the equity in your home. You can then use this money for things like home improvements, medical bills, higher education and other major expenses.

The interest rate on a HELOC is generally based on an index, which means it’s a variable rate. In other words, the rate can go up at any time. Failure to repay the HELOC may result in foreclosure. Lenders generally require that the borrower maintain a certain level of equity in the home as a condition of providing a home equity line. Because of this, a HELOC is often viewed by lenders as a second mortgage, even though it is technically different.

Home equity lines of credit differ from a conventional home equity loan because you’re not advanced the entire sum up front. Instead, you get a line of credit to borrow, similar to a credit card.

Home Equity Loan

With a home equity loan, you still use the equity in your home as collateral. With the money, you can still make home improvements or repairs. However, instead of a credit line, you take the amount you want, and put it in your own account to use as you wish. Most home equity loans require good to excellent credit history, and reasonable loan-to-value and combined loan-to-value ratios.

You will find two kinds of home equity loans: closed end and open end. They’re considered second mortgages because the lender secures them against the value of your house just like a traditional mortgage. Usually, home equity loans and lines of credit are for a shorter term than first mortgages.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. AmeriFirst Home Mortgage does not offer any programs for HELOCS or Home Equity Loans.

The problem with home equity is that few homeowners in

the United States have enough equity in their

homes to qualify for equity loans or lines

of credit.

BEFORE AFTER

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FHA 203K

The 203k section of FHA guidelines refers to borrowing additional funds to make repairs and improvements to your home. You can use the funds for simple upgrades to your home like a kitchen or bath improvement, or for more in-depth rehabilitation like rebuilding a house that is presently unlivable. You can even use a 203k rehabilitation loan to tear down an existing structure and build a new one using some portion of the existing foundation. You can borrow up to 96.5% of the after-improved appraised value. You can only use the 203k for primary, owner-occupied homes.

There are two FHA 203k options for you to consider: Standard 203k and the 203k Limited.

STANDARD 203K

The Standard 203k covers repairs of more than $35,000 including structural work. This can include moving a load-bearing wall, adding a room or replacing the sill plate (due to insect damage). A Standard 203k requires a HUD-approved 203k consultant to help in the process.

Timelines, Disbursements and Inspections for the Standard 203k

Timeline: When the loan closes, the mortgage proceeds will be disbursed to pay off the seller of the existing property and the Rehabilitation Escrow Account will be established. Construction may begin. The homeowner has up to six (6) months to complete the work depending on the extent of work to be completed.

Disbursements (Draws): As construction progresses, funds are released after the work is inspected by a HUD-approved inspector. A maximum of 5 draws are allowed. Draw amounts may vary and are based on the work performed. Disbursements are made as each phase of the project is completed based on the draw paperwork provided by the consultant. Inspections are required prior to each disbursement. A ten (10) percent holdback is required on each disbursement released from the Rehabilitation Escrow Account.

The Holdback/Contingency Fee is:

1. Used as an incentive to insure all work is completed and to cover health, safety and unplanned issues that arise during construction.2. Required on FHA 203k; recommended on Limited.3. Required on properties older than 30 years and/or over $7,500 in rehabilitation costs.4. A minimum of 10% of the cost or rehabilitation and maximum of 20%.

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If not used (after all construction is complete) the remaining amount will be applied to pay down the principal balance of the loan. The total of all holdbacks may be released only after a final inspection of the rehabilitation and issuance of the Final Release Notice.

Eligible Improvements for the Standard 203k

Homeowners can use the 203k program to finance “desired” repairs or upgrades such items as painting, room additions, decks and other items even if the home does not need any other improvements. Eligible improvements can range from relatively minor (though exceeding $5,000 in cost) to virtual reconstruction: a home has been demolished or will be razed as part of rehabilitation is eligible, for example, provided that the existing foundation system remains in place.

The types of improvements borrowers may make using the Standard 203k include:

• All of the improvements listed below in the eligible improvements for a Limited 203k.

• Structural alterations and reconstruction, like room additions, repair of termite damage, major remodeling of kitchens and bathrooms, finishing an attic or basement, adding a second story to a home, etc.

• Major landscaping and site improvement including correction of grading and drainage problems, tree removal and repair of sidewalks and driveway, if they are a safety hazard to the property.

LIMITED 203K

When you need limited repairs of less than $35,000 the Limited 203k comes into play. Replacing carpet, repainting the house or buying new appliances fall under the Limited 203k. You do not need to have a HUD consultant in a Limited 203k (although it’s often a good idea to have one running the show for you).

Timelines and Disbursements for the Limited 203k

Timeline: When the loan closes, the mortgage proceeds will be disbursed to pay off the seller of the existing property and the Rehabilitation Escrow Account will be established. Construction may begin. Depending on the type of improvements the homeowner has up to six (6) months for completion.

Disbursements (Draws): No more than two payments may be made to each contractor. The first payment is intended to defray material costs and shall not be more than 50% of the estimated costs of all repairs and improvements. The Lender will allow the first payment at closing to cover for, and not exceed, actual required contractor deposits, building permits, and/or the cost of building materials incurred prior to construction. Before a final disbursement is made, the borrower must sign a statement acknowledging that the work has been completed in a workmanlike and satisfactory manner. A final inspection is required regardless of the improvement or repair, and must be done at completion before the final disbursement is released. Any leftover funds are applied to principal balance of the loan.

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Eligible improvements include:

• Repair/Replacement of roofs, gutters and downspouts• Repair/Replacement/upgrade of existing HVAC systems• Repair/Replacement/upgrade of plumbing and electrical systems• Repair/Replacement of flooring• Minor renovation, such as kitchens & baths, which do not involve structural repairs• Painting, both exterior and interior• Weatherization, including storms windows and doors, insulation, weather stripping, etc.• Purchase and installation of appliances, including free-standing ranges, refrigerators, washers/ dryers, dishwashers and microwave ovens• Septic system and/or well repair or replacement• Accessibility improvements for persons with disabilities• Lead-based paint stabilization or abatement of lead-based paint hazards• Repair/replace/add exterior decks, patios, porches and swimming pools• Basement finishing and renovation with does not involve structural repairs• Basement waterproofing• Window and door replacements and exterior wall re-siding

Ineligible Improvements include:

• Renovation involving structural changes, like moving a loadbearing wall, or new construction, like adding rooms• Landscaping or Fencing• Work that will not start within 15 days of loan closing or will cause the borrower to be displaced from the home for more than 15 days or renovations that will take more than 6 months to complete• Luxury items like hot tubs, tennis courts, etc.Learn more about Standard vs. Limited 203k in the AmeriFirst blog.

Click the pic to learn the difference between the Standard 203k and the 203k Limited

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REFINANCE AND STAY WITH A 203K

The FHA 203k mortgage isn’t just for new purchases. Home owners can refinance their mortgage into an FHA 203k and make the home improvements they desire, and stay in an “all-new home.” In order to refinance, the home must meet these maximum amount stipulations.

Based on the lesser of:

1. The existing mortgage balance before rehabilitation, plus the estimated cost of rehabilitation and allowable closing costs or

2. The lesser of the As-Is value plus rehabilitation costs or 110% of the after-improved value multiplied by 97.75%

Whether it’s turning an average house you might like into a dream house, or refinancing your current home in order to finance improvement projects and stay in the house you love, the FHA 203k can solve many renovation needs.

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HOMESTYLE RENOVATION

The HomeStyle Renovation mortgage is another option for investors and home buyers alike. With the HomeStyle Renovation mortgage, you get to obtain a purchase transaction mortgage or a limited cash-out refinance mortgage and receive funds to cover the costs of repairs, remodeling, renovations or energy efficient improvements to the property.

There are no required improvements or restrictions on the types of repairs allowed or a minimum dollar amount for the repairs. Repairs or improvements, however, must be permanently affixed to the real property and add value to the property.

Essentially, HomeStyle Renovation is a solution to the current problem in housing that home buyers often see: finding houses that aren’t yet “home.” You can buy a house with potential and turn it into your home with your style, without breaking the bank. With a minimum of 5% down*, you can finance the purchase and remodeling of your dream home.

With as little as a 5% down payment you can add your taste & style to a house to make it your home with remodeling projects like a new kitchen, bathroom, room addition or energy efficient upgrades.

HomeStyle Renovation allows you to buy a home and fix it up, or refinance and remodel your current home.

• Purchase or refinance & remodel• 5% minimum down payment for primary, single-family residences (10% for second homes)• You can use gift funds for down payment & closing costs for owner occupied, primary residences after you contribute a minimum 3% down payment• 3% seller contribution allowed• Cosmetic and structural renovations allowed• Allowable improvements can include landscaping, appliances, swimming pools and more

*A 5% down payment will require approval from AmeriFirst Financial Corp. management

BEFORE

AFTER

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NMLS #110139 AmeriFirst Home Mortgage 800.466.5626

RENOVATION LOAN COMPARISON CHART

FHA 203k(Consultant)

FHA 203k(Limited)

Fannie Mae HomeStyle©

Loan Type Purchase or refinance Purchase or refinance

Property Type Purchase and renovate most residential properties Purchase and renovate most residential properties

1-4 Unit Primary Residence

1-Unit Second Home 1-Unit Investment

Properties

Minimum Down Payment

3.5% of total acquisition cost(Sale price + renovation costs)

or for refinancing(mortgage balance +

renovation costs)

3.5% of total acquisition cost(Sale price + renovation costs)

or for refinancing(mortgage balance +

renovation costs)

10% for 1 - unit primary and second homes

20% for 1 - unit investment only

Gift Funds Allowed per FHA guidelines

Can be used on a case by case basis for down payment for owner occupied, primary

residence and subject to MI guidelines

Mortgage Amount Based on “as completed” appraisal value or total acquisition(Sales price + renovation costs) (lower of the two)

Mortgage Insurance (MI) Required

Down payments less than 20% on a purchase and LTV’s >

80% on refinance

Maximum Renovation Amounts

No maximum as long as mortgage amounts are within

county guidelines for FHA loansUp to $35,000 50% of the as completed value

Allowable RepairsFrom structural changes to

landscaping, new appliances and more

From flooring to painting, remodeling kitchen/bath,

appliances and more. No major remodeling, structural

repairs or landscaping

From structural changes to landscaping, new appliances

and more

*Down payment and other figures shown are for informational purposes only and are not intended as an advertisement or commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify; contact us for an exact quote.

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secTion 3:bonUs choices

& more resoUrces

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ENERGY EFFICIENT UPGRADES

Green is the “buzzword du jour” still. Energy efficiency is both Earth-friendly and good for the long term budget of the consumer. Longer-lasting light bulbs that use less energy, more efficient furnaces, and better windows help reduce pollution and save you money. These items are also covered under the various home improvement loans at your fingertips. These are different from the specific “energy efficient mortgages” you may have heard about, but these renovation mortgages solve the same basic issues.

The amount of money you might save with an energy efficient furnace will vary depending on several factors. However, one potential savings table we found showed a 2-story home of about 3,000 square foot can save around $300-$400 per year. That can add up when you also replace windows, weatherize the home and change the lighting. Making your home more energy efficient can save a lot of money over the course of several years.

Potential “green” items covered by home improvement loans:

• New windows• New doors• Furnace/duct work• Air conditioner• Weatherization• New siding/insulation• Efficient washer, dryer, refrigerator• Water heater

A renovation mortgage allows you to buy the house in its current condition and assume the responsibility of making the necessary repairs.

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AMERIFIRST POWERSAVER

Imagine this: You buy a house, fix it up to your desires including some energy efficient upgrades and get $1,000 of your closing costs paid by your lender!

A new option for home buyers looking to make some serious home improvements to their abode is the AmeriFirst PowerSaver. AmeriFirst PowerSaver is a program offered exclusively through AmeriFirst Home Mortgage that pays a portion of home buyers’ closing costs when they make eligible home improvements, proven to be energy efficient upgrades.

Imagine it this way: You find a home you really like, as it’s in a great neighborhood with a lot of potential. However, the furnace is old, the windows are the old single-pane style with a few missing their storm windows and the water heater looks like it belongs in an antique store. If you take that house and finance it with the FHA 203k renovation loan, and make the upgrades to those items, you might be able to have AmeriFirst Home Mortgage pay $1,000 towards your closing costs.

The total bill for the eligible upgrades has to add up to at least $3,500 and be rolled into the FHA 203k loan.

The benefits to you as the buyer begin to add up right away. Of course with Energy Star appliances like a water heater or furnace, you’ll see monthly savings on your utility bills. This will also happen when you perform window replacement with eligible Energy Star-rated windows, seal your ductwork and other possible upgrades. Also, by financing this work into an FHA 203k, it’s one loan with low mortgage rates. Plus we pay $1,000 towards your closing costs as mentioned above.

Eligible improvements can include:

• Insulation upgrades in the attic, walls & crawlspace• Energy Star furnace upgrade• Window replacement• Energy Star water heater replacement• Approved roof repairs• more… go here for more info: www.amerifirst.com/amerifirst-powersaver

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More Home Buyer & Homeowner Resources to Download

At AmeriFirst Home Mortgage we believe in educating home buyers and homeowners. Whether it’s home improvement loans like the FHA 203k or a first home buyer’s guide, we offer several complimentary eBooks. You can click one of the pictures below to find the eBook that’s right for you! 

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LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN HELP

For more than 30 years, AmeriFirst Home Mortgage has helped first time home buyers realize the dream of leaving that rental behind, and owning a house. Whether it’s conventional lending, an FHA program, VA loan, USDA Rural Development or a 203k mortgage loan, the team at AmeriFirst is here to find the right mortgage for you. See where AmeriFirst is licensed for mortgage lending at the AmeriFirst office locator here. <www.amerifirst.com/office-locator>

WE’RE EASY TO FIND

The website: AmeriFirst.com

We’re on other social media sites as well.

Read the blog and keep up with the industry so you can be an informed borrower.

Photo courtesies:Home Addition page 7: Brock BuildersMoney in hand page 8: Steven DepoloReduce reuse recycle page 14: Steve Snodgrass

Copyright Notice & Legal Notice© The AmeriFirst Home Mortgage Corporate Office950 Trade Centre Way, Suite 400 | Kalamazoo, MI 49002 | 269.324.4240AmeriFirst Home Mortgage is a division of AmeriFirst Financial Corp.

Feel free to share this eBook (AT NO COST OR OBLIGATION) with anyone you want to. All rights reserved. While attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contradictory information contained in this document. This document is not intended as legal, accounting or investment advice. The reader of this document assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information.

Not all borrowers will qualify; contact us for more information on fees and terms.